Somerset Patriots help highlight history of county's park system

The Somerset Patriots presented a check in the amount of $3,800 for the purchase of 98 copies of 'Natural Beauty: Somerset County Parks' by Clifford W. Zink to be distributed to every school and library in Somerset County. Pictured at the check presentation (from left) are Ray Brown, director of the park commission; author Clifford Zink; Sparkee, Fred Quick, foundation trustee; Steve Kalafer, Patriots chairman; Bob Mulcahy, foundation trustee; and Chuck Rosen, foundation trustee.

The Somerset Patriots Baseball Club, working in cooperation with the Somerset County Park Foundation, has provided 95 copies of “Natural Beauty: Somerset County Parks” by Clifford W. Zink to all Somerset County schools and libraries.

The Park Foundation recently published the book that chronicles the history and development of the Somerset County Park system, among the most respected public recreation systems in the nation. With 425 illustrations and photos from the 57-year history of the commission, the book details the remarkable inception and growth of the nationally recognized park system.

Patriots Chairman Steve Kalafer presented a check in the amount of $3,800 to foundation trustees to cover the cost of the books that will now be available to every child and adult in Somerset County.

“It is fantastic that every school and library will have the book,” said Zink at the presentation. “It is important that everyone in Somerset County has the opportunity to learn the history of Somerset County’s greatest resource.”

“Clifford Zink’s art, the ability to research and write the history of the Park Commission, accurately reflects the art that is the Somerset County park system,” said Kalafer. “The Somerset Patriots are committed to giving back to the community and this allows us the opportunity to ensure that children and residents of our county understand the development of the natural resource that is our parks.”

“Natural Beauty” traces the growth of Somerset County’s park system from its roots in the county’s agricultural past through its evolution over nearly six decades into an organization utilizing creative public-private partnerships to preserve open space and serve more than two million visitors and program participants annually. The book highlights information and excerpts from historic documents and interviews with former and present elected officials, commissioners, directors, planners, naturalists, rangers and recreation staff.

“Natural Beauty” is available for a $40 donation to the Somerset County Park Foundation by visiting the Somerset County Park Commission Headquarters 355 Milltown Road, Bridgewater or calling 908-722-1200.